Health
Four things to know about high blood pressure
Cases of high blood pressure (HBP) are increasing in recent years and unfortunately, it is no longer a disease uniquely associated with the elderly but with young people.
What is high blood pressure you wonder?
HBP also known as hypertension happens when a person’s blood pressure increases to unhealthy levels. Hypertension usually occurs over the course of several years and worse, might go unnoticed throughout the developmental stage. This is why it is commonly referred to as, “the silent killer” while scientifically, the type of hypertension that develops over time with no specific cause is known as primary hypertension.
Hypertension is usually accompanied by damages to other parts of the body like; the eyes, brain, kidney etc. Because of the graveness of hypertension, early detection is of high priority which is why it is advised to undergo regular blood checks.
Here are four things you should know about high blood pressure.
1. Young People Can Have High Blood Pressure Too
Nowadays, young people suffer complications from HBP. The risk of developing these complications is greater in young people who are exposed to risk factors such as obesity, smoking, and too much salt intake than those who live healthy lives.
According to American Heart Association, “Hypertension among young people is common, affecting 1 in 8 adults aged between 20 and 40 years. This number is likely to increase with lifestyle behaviors and lowering of hypertension diagnostic thresholds.” It added that patients who suffered HBP at a young age could experience cardiovascular complications in their middle age.
This explains why although there used to be a time when HBP was referred to as a disease for elderly people only. That ship has sailed as more young people are diagnosed with HBP every day.
It is important then for young people to become aware of this reality so as to embrace good medical practices like; regular blood checkups, avoiding stress, and leading a healthy lifestyle.
2. High Blood Pressure Might Be Hereditary
Individuals whose parents have a history of hypertension could be prone to the same fate most especially if both parents suffered the disease, WebMD says. However, there seems to be no concrete proof of this particular pattern.
Some other studies also imply that perhaps genetics have nothing to do with children suffering HBP like their parents. They suggest that perhaps, this occurs because the children grew up in the same environment as their parents and were being exposed to the same conditions as their parents.
3. Many People Who Have High Blood Pressure Have No Idea
Since a lot of people do not embrace the culture of regular medical checkups, they might be unaware of existing medical conditions they have such as HBP, and worse, since HBP in its developmental stage can go quite unnoticed, people living with it might not even have a clue they have the disease.
This could go on for years undetected until a crisis or severe symptoms like stroke attacks such individuals.
4. High Blood Pressure Can Be Managed
HBP isn’t a death sentence. This is because it can be managed with the right attitude and tools.
With changes to lifestyle [like exercising, good diet], and recommended medication, an individual can manage their hypertensive condition. Of course, this has to be done according to a doctor’s advice.
As mentioned earlier, one of the ways to beat the bad surprise that’s HBP is to commit to periodic blood-level check-ups as well as maintain a highly healthy lifestyle.
Also, expect that your medical doctor may also recommend dietary changes such as cutting down on sodium intake (like salt) to you.
As mentioned earlier, one of the ways to control or prevent HBP is by committing to periodic blood-level check-ups as well as maintaining a healthy lifestyle such as quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, intake of salt moderately among other health lifestyles.
Health
7 health benefits of eating seaweed
Seaweed, also known as kelp, nori, or marine algae, comes in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colours.
Each variety offers its distinct taste and texture. Seaweed is surprisingly versatile and can be enjoyed in a multitude of ways.
Here are 7 amazing reasons to consider adding a touch of the ocean to your plate:
1. Nutrition
Seaweed is a nutritional goldmine, brimming with essential vitamins and minerals that your body needs to thrive. It’s an excellent source of iodine, a vital mineral for healthy thyroid function. Just a small amount of seaweed can meet your daily recommended intake of iodine, helping to regulate your metabolism, energy levels, and brain function.
Seaweed is also a good source of vitamins A, C, E, and K, all essential for maintaining a healthy immune system and promoting cell growth and repair. Seaweed is also a natural source of magnesium, essential for regulating blood pressure and muscle function, as well as iron, which helps transport oxygen throughout your body.
It contains calcium, crucial for strong bones and teeth, and potassium, which helps maintain healthy blood pressure.
2. Gut health
The human gut is a complex ecosystem teeming with trillions of bacteria, both good and bad. A healthy balance of these microbes is crucial for health and digestion. Seaweed is a prebiotic, meaning it provides nourishment for the good bacteria in your gut. These friendly bacteria help with digestion, and nutrient absorption, and even play a role in immune function.
By feeding these good bacteria, seaweed helps to create a thriving gut environment that keeps you healthy. Studies have shown that a balanced gut microbiome can help reduce the risk of digestive issues like constipation and irritable bowel syndrome, as well as strengthen your immune system against harmful pathogens.
3. Weight management
If you’re looking for a natural way to manage your weight, seaweed might be your new best friend. Seaweed contains a type of fibre called alginate, which forms a gel-like substance in your stomach. This gel helps you feel fuller for longer, promoting satiety and reducing cravings. This, in turn, can lead to a decrease in overall calorie intake and support weight management efforts.
In addition to its fibre content, seaweed is naturally low in calories and fat, making it a guilt-free way to add variety and nutrients to your meals.
4. Heart health
Heart disease remains a leading cause of death worldwide. The good news is that seaweed might offer some protection for your heart. Seaweed contains healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to promote heart health by reducing inflammation, lowering bad cholesterol levels, and improving blood pressure.
Seaweed may also help to prevent blood clots, which can block arteries and lead to heart attacks and strokes. Furthermore, its rich supply of antioxidants helps fight free radicals that can damage blood vessels and contribute to heart disease.
5. Blood sugar control
For people with diabetes, managing blood sugar levels is crucial. Seaweed might offer some unique benefits in this regard. Studies suggest that certain types of seaweed, like wakame and fucoidan, may help regulate blood sugar levels. These seaweeds may slow down the absorption of carbohydrates in the gut, preventing blood sugar spikes after meals.
Additionally, seaweed may improve insulin sensitivity, allowing your body to utilise insulin more effectively and keep blood sugar levels under control.
Health
Five benefits of drinking Okra water
Of recent, the trend of drinking okra water has gained traction backed with compelling evidence of its numerous health benefits.
In this article, we dive into the world of okra water and uncover five amazing key benefits of incorporating okra water into your daily diet, thereby unlocking the nutritional power hidden within:
Improved digestive health
Okra water is rich in soluble fiber, which aids digestion by promoting regular bowel movement and preventing constipation. It contains a gel like substance called mucilage that soothes and coats the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and easing symptoms of gastrointestinal discomfort. regular consumption of okra water can contribute to a healthier digestive system .
Weight Loss Management
Okra is low in calories and contains high fiber content, which can help make one fuller for longer . The soluble fiber in okra water helps increase feelings of fullness reducing appetite as well as unnecessary cravings. By including okra water into a balanced diet, individuals can support their weight loss goal in a sustainable manner.
Blood Sugar regulation
If you are watching your blood sugar levels or have a loved one doing so, this benefit of okra water would be really helpful as it tends to have potential benefits for blood sugar regulation. Okra contains soluble fiber, which can slow down the absorption of sugar in the digestive system, helping to stabilize blood sugar levels . By incorporating okra water into your diet, you may experience more consistent blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of complications associated with diabetes.
Heart Health Promotion
Okra is rich in nutrients like fiber, antioxidants and vitamins that contribute to a healthy heart. The fiber content in okra can help lower cholesterol levels, while the antioxidants can help reduce inflammation and protect against heart disease. However, it’s important to remember that okra water alone is not a magic solution. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and overall healthy lifestyle are key for promoting heart health.
Skin and Hair Benefits
Okra water contains vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and biotin, which can indeed benefit both skin and hair health. Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect the skin from oxidative damage caused by free radicals, thereby promoting healthier skin. Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, supports the health of hair by promoting stronger, thicker strands. Incorporating okra water into your diet or using it in beauty treatments may provide a natural way to enhance the health and appearance of your skin and hair.
With this benefits of okra water stated, if you happen to be a naysayer to okra water, you should definitely think about its benefits.
Health
Symptoms, risk factors, treatment — what to know about throat cancer
On Thursday, Ogbonnaya Onu, a former minister of science and technology in the Muhammadu Buhari administration, died aged 72.
Reports suggest that Onu, who was the first civilian governor of Abia state, grappled with throat cancer before his demise.
If you came across the news, you may have wondered for a quick minute about throat cancer and maybe imagined how the symptoms would physically manifest. Perhaps you imagined a lesion or even a swollen neck.
What is throat cancer?
It refers to a type of cancer that develops in the throat, also known as the pharynx.
The human throat is a muscular tube that begins behind the nose and ends in the neck. The voice box sits below the throat and contains the vocal cords.
The two types of throat cancer are pharyngeal and laryngeal cancers, also known as cancer of the pharynx and the larynx.
What are the symptoms of throat cancer?
Symptoms of throat cancer include persistent cough, sore throat, a lump in the throat that does not heal, changes in voice, such as hoarseness or not speaking clearly, difficulty swallowing, ear pain, and sudden weight loss.
What causes throat cancer?
Throat cancer occurs when cells in the throat develop genetic mutations that cause them to grow uncontrollably. The continuous growth kills the normal cells. Then, the accumulating cells can form a tumour in the throat.
It is not clear what causes the mutation that leads to throat cancer. There are, however, factors that can increase the risk of throat cancer.
These risk factors include a family history of cancer, smoking and chewing tobacco, excessive alcohol intake, viral infections including human papillomavirus (HPV) and Epstein-Barr virus, and a diet lacking in fruits and vegetables.
How can one reduce the risk of having throat cancer?
While there are no scientifically proven ways to prevent throat cancer, there are ways to reduce its risk such as eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, drinking alcohol in moderation, avoiding smoking, and protecting oneself from HPV.
How is throat cancer diagnosed?
Throat cancer diagnosis involves a few steps. A physical examination will be performed in which a doctor will examine the mouth and throat.
The examination also involves a series of blood tests, while an endoscopy will be carried out.
An endoscopy is when a thin tube with a light on its end is inserted through the nose to look for abnormalities in the throat.
A chest x-ray and computerised tomography (CT) scan may also be carried out.
How is throat cancer treated?
Treatment of throat cancer will depend on the size of the tumour, whether it has spread all over the place, and the overall health of the patient.
The doctor will first need to find out what stage of cancer the individual has, that is, how far it has spread. This helps to determine the best treatment options.
Surgery may be recommended depending on the tumour size and chemotherapy may also be required.
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